Tánaiste Simon Coveney condemns attacks in Sri Lanka

The Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Simon Coveney, T.D., condemns in the strongest possible terms the attacks this morning on churches and hotels in Sri Lanka.

The Tánaiste stated: "I am shocked at the appalling attacks on innocent civilians this morning in Sri Lanka. No political or other cause can justify or excuse the bombing of people at worship or simply going about their daily lives.

I express my sympathy to the families of those who have been killed and my support to those who have been injured.

On behalf of the government of Ireland I also express our solidaritywith the people and government of Sri Lanka at this tremendously difficult time. Ireland strongly supports everyone's freedom of religion and belief. Attacks such as those in Sri Lanka today and in Christchurch and elsewhere are a challenge to us all to do everything that we can to defend that right. Places of worship must be places of peace, free from fear."